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Material Science Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bourns, Inc.

Sr. Materials Engineer

Riverside, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

The Background You'll Need Education Minimum Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Material Science Engineering . Training and Experience If a BA in Chemistry or ...

Apple

Product Design FEA Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Description As the cornerstone between material science and mechanical engineering, you will design experiments to characterize materials, advance mathematical descriptions and simulation workflows ...

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Material Science Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$99.4K

$155.9K

How much do material science engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science engineer in California is $99,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material science engineer?

Material Science Engineers are professionals who study, develop, and test materials used to create a wide range of products, from electronics to medical devices to construction materials. They apply principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to understand how materials behave and how they can be improved or adapted for specific uses. Their work often involves researching new materials, analyzing their properties, and collaborating with other engineers or scientists to solve complex problems. Material Science Engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology and making products safer, stronger, and more efficient.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material science engineer?

To thrive as a Material Science Engineer, you need a solid background in materials engineering, chemistry, and physics, usually supported by a degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, materials characterization instruments (like SEM, XRD), and simulation software (such as MATLAB or ANSYS) is commonly required. Problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for innovating and working on multidisciplinary projects. These competencies ensure the development of advanced materials and solutions that meet industry standards and drive technological progress.

What are the most common challenges material science engineers face when working on cross-functional project teams?

Material Science Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing disciplines, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. Communication gaps may arise due to differences in technical language or priorities, making it essential to clearly convey material properties and limitations. Successfully navigating these challenges typically involves proactive collaboration, flexibility, and a willingness to learn about related fields to ensure project goals are met and innovative solutions are developed.

What is the difference between Material Science Engineer vs Materials Engineer?

AspectMaterial Science EngineerMaterials Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, R&D labs, quality control
Industry UsageResearch, development, testing of new materialsMaterial selection, processing, and quality assurance

Both roles focus on materials, but Material Science Engineers primarily engage in research and development of new materials, while Materials Engineers often work on applying and processing materials in manufacturing. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ slightly.

Are material science engineers in demand?

Material science engineers are in demand due to their expertise in developing new materials for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as innovation and technological advancements continue, requiring skills in research, testing, and materials characterization tools like microscopy and spectroscopy.

What do material science engineers do?

Material science engineers research and develop new materials or improve existing ones for various applications, such as aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. They analyze material properties, use tools like microscopy and spectroscopy, and often work in laboratories or manufacturing environments to ensure materials meet performance and safety standards.

What is the average salary for a material science engineer in the US?

The average salary for a material science engineer in the US is approximately $80,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals with advanced skills in materials characterization and proficiency with tools like CAD or simulation software may earn higher salaries.

What are popular job titles related to Material Science Engineer jobs in California?

For Material Science Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Material Science Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Material Science Engineer job openings:

Material Science Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,419 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Sr. Materials Engineer

Bourns, Inc.

Riverside, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Location: Riverside, California
Reports to: Advanced Materials Manager
Department: Materials Research
Travel: Up to 25%
Hiring Range: $115,000 - $130,000 annually, plus eligibility for a target annual incentive opportunity of 5% of base salary under the Bourns SBP Bonus Plan.

Applying Materials Expertise to Complex Technical Challenges

Bourns is seeking a Material Engineer, Sr. to support customers, engineering, operations, and scientists in the resolution of complex concerns in the use of and/or manufacture of Bourns products by providing material analysis with a broad-based spectrum of analytical equipment and an SEM.

This role offers the opportunity to work across materials research, engineering, and operations while using advanced analytical tools to characterize materials, investigate concerns, and support technical teams across the organization.

The Background You'll Need

Education

Minimum Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Material Science Engineering.

Training and Experience

If a BA in Chemistry or Biology is held, five years of previous work experience in a relevant field is required.

Other Skills

  • Understanding of material chemistry, rheology, and ink processing.
  • Working knowledge of analytical instruments. Examples include DSC, FTIR, TGA, SEM, and similar equipment.
  • Evidence of electronic and circuitry work either through academic research or previous employment.

Analyzing and Characterizing Materials

  • Collaborate with materials researchers, operations, and engineers to understand sample characteristics.
  • Prepare samples for analysis based on equipment needs.
  • Identify defects, contaminants, chemical and structural features.
  • Operate and maintain a variety of equipment to analyze and characterize various organic and inorganic materials. Equipment may include an SEM, CSAM, XRF, XRD, TGA, TMA, DSC, and spectrophotometer.

Resolving Material and Process Concerns

  • Analyze problems or situations and develop methods, procedures, and applications to resolve problems as required.
  • Use tools including applied statistics, Shainin methodologies, and applied math skills to characterize materials and processes.
  • Develop a coordinated effort with Product Line Management, Engineering, and other Research personnel for proper tracking of samples.

Documenting and Sharing Technical Information

  • Submit monthly reports demonstrating manpower, product lines, and time management of the various projects and equipment worked on.
  • Transfer accumulated technical information to the proper documentation as well as provide verbal presentations to the plants or other groups.
  • Train others to ensure appropriate performance and understanding of principles.
  • Perform other related duties as directed.

Providing Technical Guidance

Provide direction and guidance to technical personnel as well as senior-level management.

Communicating Technical Information Clearly

Excellent oral and written communication skills are required to communicate instructions and present ideas, concepts, solutions, and proposals to all levels of employees, customers, and suppliers.

Managing Priorities

Schedule and plan workload for self and technicians in conjunction with stated objectives and goals.

Technology and Tools

Personal computer and office software such as:

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Project

Travel and Work Environment

Ability to travel by car or air to global manufacturing sites and customer or supplier locations up to 25% of working time.

The position primarily operates in an office and factory environment

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